Passage Rock Reserve Chardonnay 2018, Waiheke Island

There’s no mistaking the impact of the combination of ripe and fleshy yellow fleshed stone fruit, new French barrel and 18 months in bottle - this wine’s bouquet is unmistakably nutty, rich, creamy - almost cheesy - fruity and loaded with aromas of cashew and baked peach, vanilla and moments of popcorn and butterscotch. On the palate - full-bodied, weighty, rich, creamy and dry. If you like these characters in a Chardonnay then this wine ticks all those boxes and more. Lengthy finish, balanced, well made and ready. While you could continue to cellar this wine (till 2023), it is showing its best now and is an ideal food wine option (Pasta with smoked seafood and cream). Drink from today and through 2025.

93 Points

Excellent